San Francisco 49ers: Ranking 10 Best Players on Offense in 2016

No. 7 – Blaine Gabbert

Blaine Gabbert began something of a career resurrection in 2015 with a handful of solid performances in the eight games he started last year but, in a scenario where both 49ers quarterbacks are playing well, he has to be considered the No. 2 guy behind Colin Kaepernick.

There was a lot to like about Gabbert’s play in the previous campaign, he got the ball out quickly and demonstrated impressive composure while also displaying the athleticism to make things happen with his legs.

As indicated by his game-winning overtime touchdown pass against the Chicago Bears, Gabbert has the arm to have success deep, the problem – however – was that he did not test defenses downfield enough.

Frustratingly, many of Gabbert’s throws were checkdowns short of the first down markers. In a Chip Kelly system built around the running game and the quick passing attack, that may not be much of an issue, the lack of accuracy he showcased, though, could certainly be a concern going forward.

Kaepernick has a number of the same flaws as Gabbert but with a longer history of success compared to the former Jaguar’s decent eight-game stretch.

Gabbert may have proven himself to be a capable NFL quarterback but, at this stage, his displays in 2015 are not enough to move him ahead of Kaepernick who, if his confidence can be restored, has greater overall upside.

Next: No. 6